Advancing Climate Compliance: How Data Informs & Challenges Building Retrofits and Decarbonization (Local Law 97)

Local Law 97 of 2019 is one of the nation’s most ambitious climate laws, setting carbon emissions limits for most large buildings across New York City. As the first major compliance deadlines take effect, data has become a central driver—shaping how agencies, nonprofits, and building owners understand performance, identify risks, and plan for long-term decarbonization.

This session brings together experts from city agencies and the private sector partners to explore how open data and public datasets are transforming the city’s approach to building emissions. Speakers from NYC Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), the Department of Buildings (DOB), the Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice (MOCEJ), and Cadence OneFive will share how their organizations use data to implement the law, monitor energy usage, model carbon impacts, develop compliance services, and design equitable climate strategies.

Professionals, civic technologists, and the general public who are interested in the role of data in climate resiliency, building decarbonization, affordable housing, and climate policy will most benefit from attending this session.